News

Geoff and Jake Wightman Lead Successful Endurance Coach Network

10 January 2018

The latest Athletics NI Endurance Coaches Network (ECN) took place on 5th January 2018 at the Holiday Inn, the night before the IAAF Antrim International Cross Country competition, with 30 of Northern Ireland’s leading endurance coaches attending.

The ECN brings the coaching community together to gain and share knowledge and more importantly to network with each other.

Athletics NI were delighted to welcome Geoff and Jake Wightman as guest speakers.

Geoff is a former international marathon runner who finished 6th in the European Championships in 1990 and has a best time of 2:13. He is also a prolific commentator at major events across the UK.

2017 was a breakthrough year for Jake. He won the 1500m at the Bislett Games in Oslo in a personal best of 3:34.17 and competed at this year’s World Championships. In addition to commentating on Jake’s performances, Geoff is also Jakes lead coach.

Director of Coaching and Athlete Development, Jackie Newton said “We would like to thank all of the attendees for their contributions at this network event. Geoff and Jake spoke of the long-term approach that was taken with Jake’s development, from when he entered the sport at the age of 12, and this included lessons Geoff had learnt through his own athletic career.

‘’They made it an informal session by inviting comments and questions throughout. Interesting discussions ensued where we considered different view points on several topics and gave us all further thoughts to take away and consider”.

Talking after the event, Athletics NI’s Running Participation Officer, Allister Woods, said “The Endurance Coaches Network serves as an excellent opportunity for local coaches to come together and immerse themselves in current best practice.

‘’We really appreciate both Geoff and Jake taking the time to come across and share their own philosophy, and their key considerations when thinking about Jake’s long-term development as an athlete”.